To the editor:

Over 30 years of management in Fire/EMS services allowed me to work with many officials and legislative bodies at all levels of government. Barbara Bailey always made time to meet with me on public safety, education and retirement issues.

That has not been the case with State Sen. Haugen. Twenty-five years ago Mary Margaret Haugen was accessible as our legislator, but she has become aloof and interested primarily in those who support her campaigns and are recipients of public tax dollars. The contrast between Rep. Barbara Bailey’s legislative history and Sen. Haugen’s is stark.

During the last four bienniums, Mary Margaret Haugen missed 271 votes. These missed votes were on issues regarding public safety, education, women’s health, eldercare, agriculture and veterans.

Bailey missed only six votes during the same time period. In fact, all were on the same day.

Sen. Haugen spent 40 percent of the last session on legislation forcing modification of family values, requiring another special session for the budget adoption. Effective legislators listen to all constituents, even if they do not share beliefs.

The point is, the 10th District has only one senator and citizens deserve representation on Senate bills. It is time for a senator who listens to constituents and one who will find long term solutions for continuing budget problems. Barbara Bailey has proven her attributes in these important areas. Her priorities include public education and public safety, and she is accessible and always on the job. It is time for a change in senators!

Jim Adsley

Langley